LOI preview: Dublin derby to test depleted Hoops

Ireland's biggest derby game rolls around again tonight with the beginning of another double weekend of games that will quickly impact the table.

Despite their injury problems which have seen up to 10 players out, Shamrock Rovers are on a five-game unbeaten run.

It seems as if the Hoops are only in second or third gear as they aim to peak for European football and the league run-in.

The home draw with Galway was a slip-up on paper but given the Tribesmen are taking points off most teams in the top half of the table, it can quickly be forgotten.

Johnny Kenny and Aaron Greene are stepping up in front of goal, while Darragh Burns is also proving his class on returning to Ireland.

Alan Reynolds’ first match in charge was this fixture as he learned the good and bad of his side.

A run of three victories quickly came to a halt last week in Dundalk, another sign that inconsistency will follow Bohs around until the new manager gets to put his stamp on things at Dalymount.

Nevertheless they are well-placed for a European challenge. Reynolds could certainly endear himself even ore to the supporters in north Dublin with a good result here.

The hardest team to beat in the league, or at least to score against, is Galway United.

Derry City were shocked by a Stephen Walsh winner last time they met the Tribesmen. Results like that are simply unaffordable now for City after some early season wobbles.

They've steadied the ship with impressive wins over St Patrick’s Athletic and Waterford. It’s crucial Derry stay with Shamrock Rovers early in the year.

Fit again Patrick Hoban will return to his home county ready to hit the goal trail again.

Dundalk have finally registered a win with new boss Noel King pleased with what he saw in the win over Bohs.

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